The Half & Half Suspension Lamp

A design inspired by the way light can alter one’s perception of objects during the day and at night.

Designed by Alain Gilles for Hind Rabii Lighting, Half & Half is a distinctive suspension lamp that brings together two contrasting elements. The design draws inspiration from the way natural and artificial light can alter one’s perception of an object throughout the course of a day and at night. At the same time, the two elements aim to bring the lamp to life in different ways. The Half & Half suspension lamp features an opaline glass base with a rounded shape. This half-bulb illuminates with a soft glow when the user turns on the light at night.

For the upper section, the designer chose ceramic. Crafted with a polished finish and a cross shape, this element comes to life during the day. As light changes from morning to dusk, it subtly changes the way the ceramic part looks and also creates a play between shadows on the material’s surface. The lamp’s name refers to this contrast between day and night and to the difference between the two materials. While the lower section is warm and rounded, the sculptural upper element boasts clean lines and an almost brutalist aesthetic.

The Half & Half lamp comes in two sizes, S and L. Great on its own or in a cluster of pendant lights, the lamp can also be installed at various heights. The glass finish is white opal, while the ceramic part comes in four colors: Green, Caviar, Toscan, and Smooth. The lamp, along with other Alain Gilles designs, will make its debut at Salone del Mobile 2021, which will take place in Milan between 5-10 September. Photography© Hind Rabii Lighting.